Octadecyl acrylate, identified by CAS 4813-57-4, is a long-chain monofunctional monomer characterized by its eighteen-carbon linear alkyl side chain attached to an acrylate ester group. Often referred to as stearyl acrylate, this compound appears as a waxy solid or a clear liquid depending on the ambient temperature, owing to its melting point near 30-35°C. Its primary chemical value lies in its ability to undergo radical polymerization, introducing significant hydrophobicity and internal lubrication to resulting polymer chains.
In industrial and research settings, octadecyl acrylate is valued for its low volatility and its role as a reactive diluent or a modifying co-monomer. Because of the long aliphatic tail, it significantly influences the crystallinity, solubility, and rheological properties of copolymers. Proper handling involves storage in cool, dark environments with appropriate polymerization inhibitors, as the material is sensitive to thermal and photo-induced initiation. It serves as a critical building block for creating specialized materials with tailored surface energies and thermal responses.